With support from Telem faction within Blue and White and Yisrael Beytenu, Gantz could have more backing than Netanyahu; Liberman said to say wants to send PM 'into retirement'

Senior politician, seen as close to Netanyahu, says Gantz-led government will crumble within a year under internal discord and constant attack, positioning Likud for a comeback

With Yisrael Beytenu's support, Gantz could have more MKs backing him for PM than Netanyahu; law barring indicted MK - like Netanyahu - from leading government could have majority

While some attribute bump for Likud to annexation pledges, others say it had to do with allegiance to premier, who is seen as being under attack

Former defense minister issues mocking statement consisting of laughing emojis after Likud asks attorney general to expand Yisrael Beytenu corruption probe to include him

Likud gains 235,554 more votes than in last election, confirmed as largest party ahead of Blue and White with 33 seats

Ofer Shelah slams Likud leader for claiming votes for predominantly Arab party don't count; asserts that there's a majority in Knesset against 'Netanyahu state'

Despite Netanyahu's apparent inability to form a governing coalition, chancellor feted 'clear election victory'; so far no word from Trump or Modi

Trying to bend arithmetic to his needs, and opening a foundational debate, Netanyahu says Joint List of Arab parties has no place in the equation when determining the people's will

With 99.9% of ballots counted, Likud has 36 seats to Blue and White's 33; results unlikely to fluctuate further